versión On-line ISSN 1852-7434

Resumen

Background: For many years the acromioclavicular joint dislocation was an unsolved problem. We developed a new surgical technique to correct some of the morbidity that resulted from other surgical techniques or treatments, and improve our post-op outcomes. The purpose of this paper is to explain the different steps of this surgical technique that we called the "4-suture-technique," which we have been performing for the last 13 years. Material and methods: From 1995 to 2008 we operated on 120 patients, average age 35, with a follow up ranging from 6 months to 13 years. We performed a biomechanical interpretation of the shoulder taking into account its anatomy and function in relation to the anatomic structures. Each surgical step of the technique is carefully described; no osteosynthesis was used in the procedure, trying to reconstruct "ad-integrum" the anatomy of the joint. Results: One hundred and twenty patients were operated, with 95% excellent and good results, with a minimum of complications. The method can be applied with excellent and good results in all the forms and surgical degrees of Tossi's original classification, and in the complementary of Rockwood and Matsen. Good results were obtained even in old dislocations. Conclusions: Acute surgical acromioclavicular dislocations, as well as old lesions, can be perfectly treated with the "4-suture-technique", without using any osteosynthesis, respecting and repairing the anatomic elements affected by the trauma, and restoring the joint biomechanics. The technique is valid for full acromioclavicular treatment.